Quick answer: Fence installation costs $10 to $72 per linear foot in 2026: wood $10 to $30, chain link $10 to $40, vinyl $15 to $40 and aluminum $22 to $72. A typical 150 ft residential fence costs roughly $1,500 to $10,800. Multiply length by the per-foot rate, then add gates and removal.
How fence installation cost is calculated
cost = length × rate per ft + gates + removalRate depends on material and style tierContractors price by the linear foot, then add fixed costs for gates and site work. Taller, heavier-gauge and decorative styles use more material and heavier posts. Labor is typically 30 to 50% of the total, according to Angi’s 2026 fence cost data.
Worked examples
150 ft wood fence, standard tier, one gate
- Fence: 150 × $20 = $3,000
- Gate: 1 × $400 = $400
Result: about $3,400 (range $1,700 to $5,100)
150 ft aluminum, premium, one gate, old fence removed
- Fence: 150 × $72 = $10,800
- Gate: $600
- Removal: 150 × $4 = $600
Result: about $12,000
Fence cost per linear foot by material (2026)
| Material | Economy | Standard | Premium | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | $10 | $20 | $30 | Classic privacy, needs sealing |
| Chain link | $10 | $20 | $40 | Budget security, pets |
| Vinyl | $15 | $27.50 | $40 | Low-maintenance privacy or picket |
| Aluminum | $22 | $47 | $72 | Ornamental, pool code, curb appeal |
Coastal and urban metros trend to the high end; rural markets often sit lower.
Choosing a fence material
- Wood: privacy at a moderate price, restain every 2 to 3 years.
- Vinyl: higher upfront, little maintenance, often cheaper over 15 to 20 years.
- Chain link: cheapest and fastest, least privacy.
- Aluminum: most expensive, decorative and rust-resistant; common around pools, which usually need self-closing, self-latching gates.
What affects your fence installation cost
- Material: aluminum can cost 5 to 7 times economy wood per foot.
- Height: taller fences need more material and deeper posts.
- Length: short runs cost more per foot.
- Gates: $100 to $1,500 each; automated gates far more.
- Terrain: slopes, rock and trees add labor.
- Removal: $3 to $7 per foot.
- Permits: often $20 to $60.
Tips for a more accurate estimate
- Measure each straight run separately and add them.
- Get at least three local quotes; prices vary 20 to 30%.
- Book late fall or winter for quieter schedules.
- Remove the old fence yourself, where safe.
- Choose chain link or economy wood if budget is the priority.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to install a fence in 2026?
$10 to $72 per linear foot installed depending on material: wood $10 to $30, chain link $10 to $40, vinyl $15 to $40 and aluminum $22 to $72. A 150 ft fence typically costs $1,500 to $10,800.
Which fence material is cheapest to install?
Wood and chain link, both from about $10 per foot. Chain link is usually cheapest overall because it needs no staining or sealing.
How much does 150 feet of fence cost?
Roughly $1,500 to $6,000 in wood or chain link, $2,250 to $6,000 in vinyl and $3,300 to $10,800 in aluminum, plus gates.
Does removing an old fence add to the cost?
Yes, usually $3 to $7 per linear foot to tear out and haul away.
How much does a fence gate cost?
A standard swing gate runs about $100 to $450 in chain link, $200 to $600 in wood, $300 to $1,500 in vinyl and $150 to $600 in aluminum. Automated driveway gates cost several thousand dollars.
Is wood or vinyl cheaper long-term?
Wood is cheaper upfront but needs staining every 2 to 3 years. Vinyl often works out cheaper over 15 to 20 years.
Do I need a permit to install a fence?
Often, especially above 6 ft or near property lines. Fees are typically $20 to $60, and pool fences have extra safety rules.
Related tools
Accuracy note: Rates come from Angi’s 2026 wood, vinyl and aluminum fence cost data. This is a planning estimate; confirm with licensed local installers before you sign.
Content Lead, Anchor AI Tools, California, USA. Spotted an error? Email hello@anchoraitools.com and it will be checked and corrected. See our editorial standards.